You’ve invested in some solid Billie Jo pieces. Nice one. But if you want to keep your rings, chains, and cuffs looking as sharp as the day you got them, you need to know how to care for your jewellery.

This isn’t some high-maintenance, 12-step chore. Our gear is built to be lived in. But a few simple habits will make sure your favourite pieces last a lifetime. This is your ultimate, no-BS guide to jewellery care.

The Big Three: Cleaning, Storing, and Wearing

It all comes down to these three things.

How to Clean Jewellery

Over time, everything from the natural oils on your skin to dust, sweat, and lotions can build up and make your jewellery look dull.

For 925 Sterling Silver

Silver is tough, but it can tarnish. The good news is, cleaning it is a piece of cake.

• Quick Polish: For light touch-ups, the polishing cloth that came with your order is your best mate. A quick, gentle rub will remove fingerprints and minor discolouration.
• Deep Clean: For more stubborn tarnish, you need to give it a proper wash. Don’t use toothpaste or harsh chemicals. All you need is warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap. Let it soak for a few minutes, then gently scrub with a soft-bristle toothbrush. We’ve got a full, detailed guide on How to Clean Sterling Silver Jewellery that you should check out.

For 18k Gold Vermeil

Gold vermeil is a thick layer of real 18k gold over a sterling silver base. It’s quality stuff, but it needs a gentler touch than solid silver.

• Gentle Wipe: Never use a polishing cloth on gold vermeil. The polishing compounds are too abrasive and can wear away the gold layer. Instead, gently wipe your pieces with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth (like a sunglasses cloth) to remove skin oils and dirt.
• Mild Wash: If it needs a deeper clean, use a bit of mild soap and warm water. Use a soft cloth to gently wipe the jewellery, rinse with clean water, and then pat it completely dry. Never soak gold vermeil jewellery.

How to Store Jewellery

Where you keep your gear when you’re not wearing it is just as important as cleaning it. Tossing it on your bedside table is a recipe for scratches and tarnish.

• Air is the Enemy: The main cause of tarnish is humidity and sulphur in the air. You want to store your jewellery somewhere cool, dark, and dry.
• Give It a Home: A dedicated jewellery box with a soft lining is perfect. It keeps your pieces separate so they don’t scratch each other.
• Airtight is Best: For long-term storage, an airtight container or a small zip-lock bag is a game-changer. Squeeze the air out before you seal it. It’s the most effective way to stop tarnish.

How to Wear Jewellery (The Smart Way)

Our jewellery is made to be worn, but a bit of common sense goes a long way. The rule is ‘last on, first off’.

• Last On: Put your jewellery on after you’ve used any colognes, moisturisers, or other products.
• First Off: Take your jewellery off before you do anything rough or wet. This includes:
  • The Gym: Sweat speeds up tarnishing, and you can easily scratch or bend a ring when lifting weights.
  • Showering: Soap and shampoo can leave a dull film on your jewellery.
  • Swimming: Chlorine is jewellery’s worst enemy. It can cause permanent damage. A quick dip in the ocean is fine, but it’s a good idea to rinse your jewellery with fresh water afterwards. Read our full guide on wearing silver in salt water for the full story.

The Bottom Line

That’s it. It’s not complicated. Clean it right, store it smart, and wear it with a bit of thought.

Do these three things, and the jewellery you invest in today will still be looking solid for years to come.

Ready to put these tips to use? Shop our latest arrivals and start building your collection.